Minnesota alums shine in FIVB win against Bulgaria
Since graduating as one of the most-beloved players on the University of Minnesota volleyball team, Sarah Wilhite Parsons is now a married woman and a member of the US Women’s National team. Though some things have changed since she wore…
Access all of Prep Dig
Continue reading this article and more.
Continue ReadingSince graduating as one of the most-beloved players on the University of Minnesota volleyball team, Sarah Wilhite Parsons is now a married woman and a member of the US Women’s National team. Though some things have changed since she wore the maroon and gold, her dominance remains constant.
Thursday, US took on a seasoned Bulgaria squad. However, this US team has set out to set the standard of play high which has been translating into wins. They beat Bulgaria in three straight sets. Scores may not reflect the length of the hard fought rallies that took place: 25-20, 25-16, and 25-21. The US has an talented team and had great moments from several players on the team. Wilhite Parsons showed why she deserves a starting spot with 11 kills. She has managed to maintain a great kill percentage since moving to this level. In this game she had a hitting efficiency of 0.423 (think of it like a batting average.) The offensive power was too much for Bulgaria.
Another player from Minnesota, Jordan Thompson, did her part, adding nine kills and two aces. The midwest had a strong showing: Mikaela Foecke (Iowa) contributed eight kills; Dana Rettke (from IL, playing at Wisconsin) led the team with 5 blocks.
This win comes after a great performance on May 22nd against Japan. They upset a great team in four sets: 25-21, 24-26, 25-21, 25-20. This is only the start of the league’s schedule but the US is out to make a statement for themselves. Coach Karch Kiraly had this to say, “I am really impressed with how this group worked and learning, and working together in all the various combinations we have put on the court so far.” He commented on the newness of the team but admired the “effort” that has already been shown!
The team faces Serbia on the 28th followed by Italy on the 29th. Look for Minnesota’s, Hannah Tapp, to get in on the action too. It is great to see the US doing so well and exciting to know players from Minnesota and other local states are making an impact.
For more info or complete stats: click here